Travel Tip: Check Out these New Airport Liquid Scanners [ 0:59 ] Play Now | Play in Popup | Download

You know, it wasn’t that long ago that we were able to travel with full-sized liquids in our carry-on bags. And now, new airport liquid scanner technology exists, which means that we might see policies changing soon.

As you might recall, the ban was put in place after an attempted bombing in England in 2006. And now it’s European airports that are relaxing the rules.

Starting in January, connecting passengers in the EU will be able to carry duty-free liquids on board. They’re also easing restrictions on baby food and liquid medicine. London Heathrow is installing new technology to scan liquids, gels and aerosols in almost any container. It’s so advanced that European airports are hoping to eliminate the liquid ban by 2016.

Here in the U.S., airports aren’t quite as progressive. But scientists in Los Alamos have done some tests using MRI technology. The device, called a MagRay, is able to distinguish between identical liquids—so it can tell the difference between an explosive device….and a nice bottle of wine.

And that, folks, is a step in the right direction.

For more information, visit the airport archives.

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